Social–emotional learning (SEL) is a process that helps students and adults develop healthy identities, manage emotions, and achieve goals. SEL is rooted in the belief that when people feel safe, seen, and valued, they experience a more profound sense of belonging and connection, resulting in improved academic success, climate/culture, and well-being. “Transformative SEL” takes that concept one step further, working to foster meaningful relationships among students and educators that result in more equitable and just learning environments.
Yesterday, the Social–Emotional Learning department at the Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) held the first in a four-part series of Community of Practice meetings for the 2023–24 school year focused on Transformative SEL. The free series, titled “Understanding the Science Behind Transformative SEL for Adolescence,” is being led by scientists from the UCLA Center for the Developing Adolescent. Adriana Galván, Ph.D., and Andrew J. Fuligni, Ph.D. (Co-Executive Directors from UCLA)—along with members of the National Scientific Council on Adolescence—are sharing practical insights from their research and discussing the neuroscience that underlies the rapid learning that occurs during adolescence.
“With SEL, we have the opportunity to deepen our sense of belonging, connectedness, safety, and well-being,” said Mai Xi Lee, SCOE’s Director of Social Emotional Learning. “When we prioritize people before content, we get better results. When people feel cared for and supported, they are more able to perform, stay engaged, and connect with each other. We need these human connections now, more than ever.”
Register to Attend
In addition to expert training, the hybrid series of meetings (being conducted in-person and online) provides educators with an opportunity to share best practices, identify opportunities, and showcase their successful SEL efforts. School and district staff who represent academics, climate/culture, equity, student support services, and expanded learning are encouraged to attend.
Register to attend the upcoming meetings:
- December 14, 2023 (9 a.m.–2 p.m.)
- February 15, 2024 (9 a.m.–2 p.m.)
- April 11, 2024 (9 a.m.–2 p.m.)
For more information or assistance with registration, email sel@scoe.net.
About SCOE’s Social–Emotional Learning Department
Launched in 2021 as part of the Prevention and Early Intervention department, the SCOE Social–Emotional Learning department provides leadership, coordination, and support in the implementation and expansion of SEL programs, services, and initiatives at SCOE and for schools and districts. The SEL department also leads the CalHOPE SEL partnership, which is working to support SEL implementation across all counties in California through shared resources, professional development, collaborative networking, and more.